UIUC CoE Phase III- Resilient Multifunctional Space Structures and Surfaces
Abstract
The space environment is increasingly congested with structures with operational lifetimes limited by impact from orbital debris, erosion from atomic oxygen, and radiation. We propose to focus on new approaches to make space structures more resilient to degradation from the space environment and micro-debris impact. Specifically, we propose to investigate surfaces that are self-passivating to atomic oxygen (AO) and radiation, and structures that are self-reinforcing following high-speed impact at orbital debris velocities. We also propose to develop multifunctional structures with embedded networks of resistive heaters which, through thermography, enable in situ assessment of impact damage, surface degradation, self-passivation, and self-reinforcement. Introduction of an internal heating system will also serve to accelerate these self-healing processes through thermal activation of a covalent adaptive network or initiation of an additional cross-linking reaction when needed. The research is organized into three major thrusts- (1) self-passivating protective surfaces to AO and radiation, (2) self-reinforcing surfaces following high-speed debris impact, and (3) thermography-based structural monitoring and controlled healing. Thrust 1 research will result in promising material systems of inorganic- organic copolymers and shielding nanoparticles that form self-passivating, protective films upon exposure to AO and radiation. Thrust 2 research will explore the use of heat and pressure from a micrometeoroid impact to trigger polymerization and localized crosslinking that reinforces the area around the impact location. In Thrust 3, we will probe the condition of damaged structures using infrared thermographs from structurally embedded resistive heating arrays and use the same network to thermally activate healing at higher temperatures where needed. Overall, the novel approaches proposed herein will enable unprecedented structural situational awareness, adaptability, and resilience for next-generation, multifunctional space structures and platforms.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310653
Entities
People
- Jeffery W Baur
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- United States Air Force
- University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign